by The Ghosty Gal

Created on: December 14, 2006   Last Updated: May 11, 2007

A talisman can be an object, drawing, or symbol believed to be endowed with a supernatural or magical powers, which then transfers its powers upon its possessor. In occult lore, talismans also attract good luck, success, health, virility, love, power, and well. The use of talismans has been universal throughout history.

Talismans are active objects-they are transformers and lightning rods. They often are confused with amulets, which protect and ward off evil or malicious spirits, and are passive. An example of a talisman is the magic hat, which renders the wearer invisible, or transports the wearer wherever he or she wishes in the blink of an eye. Magic swords, such as King Arthur's Excalibur and Siegfried's Nothung, are talismans, as our magic wands and mansion lamp's. In the Middle Ages, holy objects and relics were prized as talismans for their alleged curative powers. During the Renaissance alchemists sought the talisman of the Philosopher's Stone, the elusive substance or object that would enable them to transmute base metals into silver or gold, or transmute consciousness into a higher state. Precious stones also are considered to be talismans, some amulets as well.

Talismans, like amulets, have provided people with tools in their attempt to control the forces of nature. A talisman can be virtually any object, but generally is endowed with power through one of three ways: from nature (such as a gem); from God, the gods, or supernatural entities (such as Excalibur); and by creation in precise magic ritual (such as a wand). Many rituals exist in the grimoires, or textbooks, of ceremonial magic for the creation of talismans for any purpose, such as acquiring wealth or making good speeches. Such talismans usually are seals or inscriptions made upon metal, stone, parchment, or wax.

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